Murray, 29, will finish No. 1 if Djokovic loses to Kei Nishikori on Saturday night or if he beats him in the final on Sunday.

The Scot has climbed to top spot but hasn’t faced Djokovic since his loss to the 29-year-old in the French Open final.

But Raonic doesn’t believe that takes anything away from his achievement and believes Murray has been the best player this year and it will be confirmed if he remains on top of the rankings.

‘Andy has been the best player in the world definitely for the last six months,’ he said after defeat.

Murray narrowly beat Raonic (Picture: AFP/Getty)

‘That’s the only thing that’s sort of missing from there, is that showdown with Novak.

‘If that’s the scenario tomorrow, it couldn’t be a more ideal one, let’s say, for a person who loves tennis.

‘Yes, you could take that away from Andy in a way [that he hasn’t faced Djokovic] but then you could also say it’s sort of Novak’s responsibility to get to that point because Andy has been there every single week.

‘Regardless or not if they play tomorrow, if not obviously Andy’s still the best player in the world of 2016. There’s no question about it.’

Murray celebrated as he came through the match (Picture: AFP/Getty)

Raonic was just one point away from the final in a gruelling contest and he revealed his pride at his performance after the match.

‘There’s a lot to take away from it,’ he added.

‘I have to be proud that I finished the year with giving it every ounce of energy I had.